Skip to content
Troops First Initiatives

Troops First Initiatives

JMA’s newest philanthropic partnership is with Troops First Foundation. Established in 2008 by Rick Kell and David Feherty, the Troops First Foundation develops, operates, and supports a synergistic group of wellness and quality of life initiatives in support of today’s military personnel.

Operation Front Door

This initiative provides matching funds to disabled veterans, when used along with existing Federal Programs, to assist veterans in purchasing a home. This initiative puts our true American heroes back in the position of home ownership. Learn More »

Operation Proper Exit

For troops that have been injured in battle, this initiative provides them the opportunity to return to the place they were injured and make a “proper exit” on their own terms. They walk to the aircraft and climb the ramp under their own power rather than being medically evacuated.

Operation Proper Exit is changing the lives of soldiers and their families. You can read more about two soldiers’ experiences in this Letter of Thanks [pdf] addressed to Butch Harmon and John Manni.

Steps to making a difference

JMA is committed to making a difference in the lives of veterans. We continuously work with VA hospitals and State Veteran’s organizations around the country in an effort to recruit veterans and provide them with viable employment opportunities.

  • Many of the troops supported by the Troops First Foundation are classified as disabled—but do not tell them that. These young men and women do not want to be treated any differently. They are not bitter, they do not complain, they just want a chance and need a little help as they work to resume a normal life.

    — Kathy and John Manni, Founders of JMA Services